August8, 2017

WASHINGTON—Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement:

“President Trump has again undermined American credibility by drawing an absurd red line, committing to respond to North Korea’s bluster and missile tests with ‘fire and fury like the world has never seen.’ Make no mistake: North Korea is a real threat, but the President's unhinged reaction suggests he might consider using American nuclear weapons in response to a nasty comment from a North Korean despot.

“America’s security is based not just on the strength of our armed forces but on the credibility of our Commander-in-Chief. Today President Trump’s reckless behavior and impulsive outburst undermined the security of the American people, and that of our friends and allies. Kim Jong Un will call his bluff as America’s adversaries watch.”